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So the 47-day political standoff may be over but it has left many wondering whether the
issue was that significant to begin with.
Our political correspondent Kim Yeon-ji looks back at what was behind the fiasco.
The main sticking point between the two parties was the creation of a new science ministry
that was a key part of President Park's government restructuring plan.
Under the plan, all broadcasting policy oversight will be transferred from the Korea Communications
Commission to the new ministry.
The main opposition Democratic United Party objected to the move, because it said that
would hurt media neutrality.
The party now says the compromise deal worked out between the two parties contains measures
to keep the science ministry from abusing its power.
"All functions related to new media, such as cable television network operations and
satellite TV, will be transferred to the science ministry.
However, the science minister must get the Korea Communications Commission's approval
BEFORE he can exercise his power to license those channels and BEFORE any new laws or
amendments to the broadcasting law are made."
The Korea Communications Commission is made up of members recommended by both the ruling
and opposition parties.
Under the compromise plan, the new science ministry cannot issue licenses for new media
if it does not get the green light from this organization.
The president had also hoped to put the Nuclear Safety and Security Commission under the purview
of the new science ministry.
However, the ruling party has agreed to accept the DUP's request to place the body under
the Prime Minister's Office.
Only the research and development of nuclear energy will be transferred to the new science
ministry.
The rival parties also managed to narrow their differences on other key issues.
They agreed to expand the function of the Small and Medium Business Administration so
as to strengthen its power to regulate corporate monopolies and promote anti-trust laws.
The DUP had hoped to turn the body into a new ministry, upgrading its status.
Instead, the parties decided to keep the body as it is while giving the SMBA chief a seat
in the Cabinet.
"The National Assembly is expected to vote on the government restructuring bills on Wednesday.
Approval of the bills will help the stalled Park Geun-hye administration to finally begin
its work in earnest."
Kim Yeon-ji, Arirang News.